This checklist is to assist NASUWT activists in assessing the actions employers are taking with
regard to risk assessing the plans for opening of schools on 24th August 2020 for Primary 7, Year
12 and Year 14, and for all vulnerable children at the start of the Autumn term 2020.
The checklist identifies any potential key deficiencies in the risk assessment process or the risk
assessments themselves.
Where deficiencies are identified, then these matters will need to be addressed by the NASUWT
and should be referred to the National Executive Member and the NASUWT Belfast Centre if they
cannot be resolved with the employer.
1. In planning for opening, all schools and other educational settings must have completed
a new risk assessment as part of the school reopening plan
No new risk assessment has been provided by the school.
2. Production of the risk assessment
The risk assessment has not been subject to consultation with the NASUWT.
3. Where a new risk assessment is provided, identify if any of the following have been
omitted:
A staffing audit has not been undertaken to identify teachers who are in at risk groups or
with underlying health conditions, and who may need to be shielded, self-isolating or
otherwise working from home.
An equality impact assessment has not been provided that takes into account teachers who
are disabled and/or from a BAME background who are disproportionately affected by the
virus.
Personal protective equipment (PPE) provisions for teachers have not been identified or
confirmed.
PPE is not being provided to teachers who are required to undertake close contact with
pupils.
A health and safety inspection of the premises has not been undertaken by a ‘competent
person’.
A risk assessment has not been undertaken/completed of all tasks and activities in which
pupils, teachers and other staff will be expected to engage.
The operational requirements, including for the provision of all necessary cleaning and
hygiene materials, PPE and other consumables, have not been secured.
Review of employers’ COVID-19 risk assessments
for the opening of schools from Autumn 2020
CHECKLIST
NASUWT
The Teachers’ Union
NORTHERN IRELAND